A-Z Glossary

ALGAE EXTRACT:  This is a blend of three varieties of red algae that grow along the Atlantic coast of Europe and North America. High in iodine and amino acids, algae extract is very nourishing and soothing to the skin. It is also used as a stabilizer and thickener in cosmetic preparations.

ALLANTOIN:  Allantonin (from Comfrey herb) is a skin care ingredient that promotes healing, and is known for its regenerating and soothing properties. The extract of the Comfrey plant is anti-inflammatory, astringent and emollient. Allantonin promotes the growth of connective tissue and is easily absorbed through the skin. It aids the healing of open wounds, cuts, burns, and bruises.

Allantoin has a soothing and generally restorative effect on the skin. The FDA classifies allantoin as an effective "skin protectant." It may help to stimulate the growth of new and healthy cell tissue and help alleviate the symptoms of chapped, parched, dry, inflamed, or irritated skin.

Allantoin's most prominent property is as an effective anti-inflammatory agent, and in daily skin care it can therefore have a calming effect. Allantoin also helps to soften the skin, and it can thus help restore elasticity and suppleness. It is considered safely noncomedogenic, nonsensitizing, and nonirritating.
ALOE BARBADENSIS (Aloe) LEAF JUICE and LEAF EXTRACT:  Aloe (vera, barbadensis, ferox, etc.) derived from various species is classed as a biological product and has traditionally been used as a skin conditioning agent and fragrance ingredient. Aloe alleviates discomfort associated with dry and cracked skin, burns, insect bites, and allergic reactions.

Transparent gel from the pulp of the meaty leaves of Aloe has been used topically for thousands of years to treat wounds, skin infections, burns, and numerous other dermatologic conditions.

When applied to the skin, aloe has excellent properties to help with wound healing, or as a moisturizer and emollient, since it penetrates the tissue. It is good for sunburn and other minor burns as it reduces skin irritation. Aloe provides good anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, having hypoallergenic properties with about the same pH balance of the skin.

When processed using the entire leaf, aloe gel retains over 130 different ingredients including many biologically active ingredients like polysaccharides, amino acids, vitamins, glyco-proteins, enzymes and minerals.

Aloe has a positive effect on improved blood circulation to the skin and may reduce the appearance of "age spots" and scarring.

ANTHEMIS NOBILIS (Chamomile) FLOWER EXTRACT:  There are two chamomiles, Roman and German, both produce the oil used since ancient times for its invigorating qualities. Chamomile has very low toxicity so it is good for sensitive skin. Rejuvenating and relaxing, oil with Chamomile is good for dry skin, dermatitis, acne, burns and inflammation. Chamomile extract contains soothing, anti-irritant properties.

APIS MELLIFERA (Beeswax - Organic):  Beeswax is humanely obtained from the honeycomb of the honeybee. It is a natural firming agent, emulsifier and consistency regulator. The open structure of beeswax provides a protective, breathable barrier against the elements. Emulsifiers keep the skin care product from separating.

ASCORBIC ACID (Vitamin C):  Ascorbic acid is a potent anti-oxidant that may play an essential role in building collagen, the connective tissue that holds us together. It is found in citrus fruits, and because of its acidic nature, it also helps improve tone and texture by removing dead skin cells and diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Duke University research has shown that topical Vitamin C is an excellent anti-oxidant. It helps to protect the skin against exposure to the harmful effects of UVB/UVA bands. Vitamin C helps to enhance the activity of the immune system following exposure to sunlight.

ASCORBYL PALMITATE (Vitamin C):  This ingredient is a combination of ascorbic acid and palmitic acid which produces a fat-soluble Vitamin C ester, an antioxidant preservative that keeps products fresh and prevents color change.

BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII (Shea Butter) FRUIT: Shea Butter is a moisture-rich butter obtained from the nuts of the Mangifolia tree in Central Africa. This superb product has been used for thousands of years and is also known as karite butter or African butter. This is a super emollient, high in fatty acids and other nutrients, and it is an ideal ingredient for skin moisturizers, sun care products (as it contains natural UV-B sun-protectants), and hair products.

CALENDULA OFFICINALIS (Marigold) FLOWER EXTRACT:  The petals of Calendula (the Marigold plant) have long been used as an astringent in skin care to cleanse, soften and soothe the skin, to treat sunburns, chapped hands, insect bites, and other instances of inflamed or damaged skin. Calendula's primary active compounds include anti-inflammatory triterpenoids and flavonoids.

Calendula has been used for centuries to produce a wonderful emollient oil that has a soothing effect on the skin to treat itching, flaking, and weeping skin conditions. It is an effective ally in treating water retention and cellulite and is especially helpful for mature skin and in healing bruises and burns.

Calendula is packed with healing compounds such as antioxidant flavonoids,terpenes, carotenoids, chlorogenic acid and calendulosides. These potent components act synergistically to battle various kinds of skin irritation and inflammation.

CAMELLIA SINENSIS (Green Tea) EXTRACT:  Green tea when applied topically has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. It helps fight the various oxidative stressors (air, UV light, smoke) that cause degeneration of the skin and damage to skin cells. Besides being one of the strongest antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, green tea has also been shown to have anti-carcinogenic as well as cell-proliferating properties.

For all of its potent qualities, green tea is at the same time non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and non-allergenic.

Green tea contains several phytochemicals, especially polyphenols (catechins), that have been shown to be highly effective protectors against skin cancer, as well as providing other beneficial effects. It is a natural astringent and anti-bacterial agent that can help to detoxify and purify the skin at the same time that it helps to ward off the ravages of sun-related skin aging.g.

This powerful antioxidant (20 times stronger than vitamin E) inhibits the formation of cancer-causing free radicals and helps prevent skin cell damage caused by sun exposure and pollution. An important ingredient in suncare products, as well as in creams, lotions, shampoos and conditioners, Green Tea is high in xanthines, andis very soothing and moisturizing to both hair and skin.

CAMELLIA SINENSIS (White Tea) EXTRACT:  White Tea has been proven by new research at several major universities that it is among the most potent antioxidants, and to be a great defense against free radicals. It is a superb anti-ageing, anti-stress, anti-smoke, and anti-pollution antidote. Now its perfect-protective powers are energized and optimized while skin is deeply moisturized with our products.

In today's world, with all the negative forces your skin is exposed to, it is crucial to use a product with a concentrated dose of antioxidants whose sole purpose is to protect the skin. .

White Tea contains Polyphenols which are the most potent antioxidants. Polyphenols are found in many kinds of tea, but can be destroyed during the drying and heating process. The highest levels of Polyphenols remain in White Tea because it is harvested from the youngest buds when the plant's energy is at its highest potential, and, once harvested, White Tea is not rolled, dyed or oxidized, but simply dried in natural sunlight.

CAPRYLYL GLYCOL:  Caprylyl Glycol is one of the most effective humectants available. It protects against antimicrobical growth from bacteria and yeast while giving the finished product exceptional feel.

CAPRYLOYL GLYCINE:  The amino acid glycine and the fatty acid caprine acid from coconut oil are combined by simple processes creating an emulsifier and stabilizer with anti-microbial properties. Capryloyl glycine is non-irritating and helps maintain the skin's acid mantle (protection layer).

CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE:  A mixture of glycerin, caprylic acid, and capric acid, this is an emollient ester derived from coconut oil with good lubricating and spreading properties. It helps products to glide on the skin.

Sometimes called fractionated coconut oil, it is an exceptionally light and non-greasy oil with a very nice skin feel. It absorbs quickly, and it is very compatible with the skin--nonsensitizing and nonallergenic.

CENTELLA ASIATICA (Organic Goto Kola) EXTRACT:  Gotu Kola is an ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic remedy used for rejuvenating and nurturing the skin and its underlying connective tissues. Use it to regenerate the skin and strengthen the tissues. It has been used to treat eczema, skin ulcers, burns, wounds and bruises.


CETYL ALCOHOL (plant source):  Cetyl alcohol, from heavy plant oils like palm and coconut, is an emulsifying and foam boosting stabilizer used in moisturizers.

CITRIC ACID:  Citric acid, derived from a variety of fruits and vegetables, most commonly citrus fruits, is both an alpha and beta hydroxyacid. It is a gentle exfoliator for skin, and acts as a natural preservative and anti-oxidant.

A common pH-adjuster used in cosmetics and toiletries, it is effective at extremely low concentrations. Its benefits on aging skin have been well documented and are comparable to glycolic acid.

CITRUS AURANTIUM (Petitgrain) OIL:  Orange oil is Obtained by expressing the cold, fresh peel of the orange tree, a smallish tree native to China and India, now cultivated in the US, Brazil, Cypress, Israel, and Mexico. About 800 oranges yields one pound of orange oil, Valued for its zesty and refreshing, sweet, yet tart aroma. In skin care preparations, orange oil reduces puffiness and discourages dry wrinkled skin. Both the oil and the peel are used to stimulate circulation, clear blemishes, and increase perspiration, thus assisting the release of toxins from dull or blemished skin. The peel is used as a natural exfoliator.

CITRUS BERGAMIA (Bergamont) OIL:  Bergamot oil is obtained by cold pressing the peel of the unusual pear-shaped fruit of the bitter orange. The small tree on which the fruit is found, is part of the Rutaceae (citrus) Family and grows in Italy. It should not be confused with Bee Balm that grows in North America and is also commonly called ‘Bergamot’.

Being antiseptic and wound healing, Bergamot is useful in toning lotions for skin irritations and in cleansers and creams for acne.

CITRUS GRANDIS (Grapefruit) SEED EXTRACT:  Grapefruit seed extract from the seeds of the grapefruit is a natural bactericide, preservative and stabilizer that is both tonic and astringent. The grapefruit oil is also used for uplifting, cleansing and clearing the skin. It is stimulating to the lymphatic system and tones the skin.

CITRUS LIMONIUM (Lemon) OIL and PEEL EXTRACT:  Lemon oil is Obtained from the fresh peel of the citrus lemon tree. Known for its astringent and anti-irritant qualities, lemon oil also imparts shine to the hair when added to hair products. It is valued forits characteristic sweet, fruity, refreshingly clean, lemony fragrance. Lemon oil balances overactive sebaceous glands that lead to oily, blemished skin. It clears, and enlivens the complexion, and is also effective in treating brittle fingernails and in general hand care.  Lemon oil is fairly inexpensive because it is produced quite simply and cheaply; about 1,000 lemons will yield a pound of lemon oil.

COCOS NUCIFERA (Organic Coconut) OIL:  This Organic Virgin Coconut Oil is obtained from freshly harvested coconut meat that has been grated and then expeller pressed to produce the coconut milk. This milk is then centrifuged to separate the milk into coconut solids, water and oil. This separation is so thorough that the oil has no moisture left in it to promote rancidity, and the oil does not need to undergo any further heating to remove moisture. This method yields the finest, creamiest, most flavorful coconut oil possible. This unique cold process extraction takes place within hours of opening the coconuts, and it conserves all of the nutritive, functional components of coconuts such as squalene, tocopherols and sterol. Virgin coconut oil is a light, penetrating oil with excellent shelf life and stability. It smells of fresh coconut milk. It has long been used as a food source and has been found to be the best source of monolaurin, a well known antiseptic substance found in breast milk. Coconut Oil moisturizes and protects skin. It is anti-fungal, high in Vitamin E and unsaponifiables, and it lends oxidative stability to the formulations in which it is used. It is non-greasy and non-staining.

COCAMIDOPROPYL BETAINE:  This ingredient is a surfactant derived from coconut oil. It is effective in foaming cleansers, shampoos and body washes where high, creamy foam is desired. Its cleansing power is ideal for fragile and delicate skin, particularly of babies. It does not remove natural oils from the skin.  It is used as an emulsifier, thickener, foam booster and conditioner. It is biodegradable and is an indispensable ingredient for top-of-the-line care.

CORIANDIUM OFFICINALIS (Coriander) OIL:  Coriander, used for centuries, is an anti-bacterial which helps absorb excess oil from the skin.

CORUNDUM (Aluminum Oxide):  Aluminum Oxide is the primary material used in microdermabrasion. It is the only FDA approved abrasive for microdermabrasion. Corundum is an inert, naturally occurring substance and is a crystal, not a metal. This ingredient has never been linked to any medical condition in studies performed by research laboratories in the U.S. or Europe. The oxide shell does not allow aluminum to touch your skin. It is impermeable and can only be separated with acid.

CUCUMIS SATIVA (Cucumber):  Cucumber is used in face creams, lotions and cleansers for its astringent, soothing and cooling properties. Rich in antioxidant vitamin C, it is an excellent protector and skin nutrient.

ECHINACEA AUGUSTIFOLIA (Coneflower) EXTRACT:  The coneflower is an anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial herb that is very soothing and healing. It nourishes, moisturizes, smoothes and firms the skin.

EMBLICA OFFICINALIS (Amla, Amalaki) FRUIT EXTRACT:  Known as Indian gooseberry and Dhatri, the nurse, Amla has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic healing. It is known to have restorative and balancing effects for the skin due to a positive nitrogen content. Amla is obtained from a small tree, which grows in India. The fruit is one of the highest natural sources of Vitamin C and yields an extract that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to treat the hair and scalp. It is said to penetrate the scalp and strengthen hair at its root, to stop and reverse abnormal hair loss and to promote stronger, healthier hair growth. Amla Oil is a light non-sticky oil which nourishes and supports the skin. It is very important to replace the nourishment lost with rich herbs that balance and protect as they nourish your skin. Amla is considered by ayurvedic healers an excellent way to help prevent the damaging effects of premature ageing.

EMULSIFYING WAX (plant source):  Emulsifying Wax is a critical ingredient in lotions and cream since there is no other natural product that can create a smooth texture. An emulsifier is a chemical compound that joins oil and water and forms a stable mixture called an emulsion.  The molecular structure of an emulsifier molecule is able to attract both a water and an oil molecule at different sites at the same time. Emulsifiers manufactured from plant fats act as intermediaries to bind water and oil. The resulting compounds are called monogycerides and diglycerides which represent an important class of natural emulsifiers.

EUROPAEA (Organic Olive) FRUIT OIL:  Extra virgin 100% Organic olive oil is high in oleic acid and is therefore a good skin cell regenerator. Olive oil attracts external moisture to the skin and still allows normal functions of the skin to take place (sweating, shedding of dead skin and releasing sebum). It is useful as a massage oil for rheumatic conditions and as a treatment for inflamed skin. Organic Virgin Olive Oil is produced by a cold expeller extraction method.

Glycine Soja (Soybean) OIL:  Soybean Oil is a good emollient, high in linoleic, oleic, palmitic and linolenic acids, which are essential fatty acids necessary for healthy skin.

GYLCOL DISTEARATE:  Glycol Distearate is a Crystalline Ester made from natural Stearic Acid & Ethylene Glycol, combined with an emulsifier for an easy handling thickening agent. Glycol disterate is a common ingredient in skin care, shampoos and hair coloring agents.

HAMAMELIS VIRGINIANA (Witch Hazel) DISTILLATE:  A byproduct of the distillation of the leaves and stems of the plant, this hydrosol or floral water is a natural astringent and tonic. An anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory, it is an excellent ingredient in facial cleansers, toners and lotions. It possesses the ability to soothe the skin, and helps heal blemishes, reduce oiliness, and soothe bruises and sprains. It has an astringent effect, is invigorating, and aids resistance of the skin to environmental influences

HELIANTHUS ANNUS (Sunflower) SEED OIL:  Sunflower Oil is the extract from sunflower seeds, a rich emollient high in linoleic and oleic essential fatty acids.

HYPERICUM PERFORATUM (St. John's Wort):  This extract Has a wide range of medicinal uses. It is an antibacterial used to heal deep cuts and wounds, soothes and eases the pain of burns by lowering skin temperature, and is a diuretic, helping to eliminate waste materials from the body.  St. John's Wort is an astringent herb with anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, and firming properties. Its oil form is an excellent emollient and skin softener, widely used in sun and skin care products for its healing properties on dry, irritated skin. It is not phototoxic when used topically.

JUGLANS NIGRA (Organic Black Walnut) EXTRACT:  Some of the constituents in Black Walnut Extract include beta-carotene, acids, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, silicon, zinc, tannin, B-vitamins, and the leaves provide large amounts of vitamin C.  Black Walnut Leaf contains tannin which is highly astringent, and this quality is said to shrink the sweat glands and reduce excessive sweating.  Black Walnut Leaf is thought to possess detergent properties, and as such, it is used to cleanse the blood. It is said to relieve itching and promote the healing of the skin.  Black Walnut Leaf is an antiseptic with antibacterial agents in the essential oil (juglone) that combats infectious micro-organisms and bacterial infection. The large vitamin C content in Black Walnut Leaf is also thought to be responsible for fighting infection.

KOSHER VEGETABLE GLYCERIN:  This is a humectant (water-attracting/binding ingredient), emulsifier, and emollient naturally produced from a combination of vegetable fat and water.  Glycerin is perhaps the most common humectant (or water-binding agent) used in skin care; humectants are substances that attract water to the skin and help hold it there. Glycerin is extremely effective at helping skin retain its moisture content, which means it not only can help with dry skin conditions but also with softening and smoothing the skin and helping the skin look and function better overall. Glycerin is considered non-comedogenic, non-allergenic, and non-sensitizing. Because it is safely non-comedogenic as well as non-greasy, glycerin is a great, light form of moisture for acne-prone skin types and for humid weather conditions.

MAGNESIUM SULFATE USP:  Magnesium Sulfate is commonly referred to as Epsom Salts, a soaking aid for minor sprains, muscle aches and bruises. It is used as a water softener and bath additive.

MATRICARIA RECUTITA (Organic Chamomile) FLOWERS:  Chamomile has been used for thousands of years for skin care and medicine. The writings of ancient Egypt refer to this plant. Over the past 30 years, extensive scientific investigations have confirmed the traditional uses of German Chamomile (Matricaria recutita).  One of the most widely used botanicals, Chamomile has shown softening, soothing, and calming properties for the skin. It also alleviates and reduces inflammation, assists in healing and closing wounds, reduces dilated blood vessels and stimulates the skin. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.  It contains more than 100 constituents, but the main chemical components important to skincare are Farnesene, Cuminic and Azulene. It also contains phenolic derivatives, which have an antiseptic and healing quality, which is most helpful in relieving skin congestion and softening the skin. Azulene helps to reduce puffiness and cleanse pores of impurities.  The British Herbal Compendium lists chamomile for use with inflammations and irritations of skin, as well as for eczema.  Chamomile oil has also great wound healing properties and is extensively used with skin problems such as rashes, acne, eczema, psoriasis, hypersensitive skin and allergic conditions.

MEDICAGO MASATIVA (Alfalfa) EXTRACT:  Alfalfa Extract is a natural cleanser and mild exfoliant high in vitamins A, B, C, D and E and minerals. Used in face masks, bath oils, creams and lotions, alfalfa is also rich in protein, which makes it an excellent ingredient for hair care products. Alfalfa contains saponins (natural foaming agents).

MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane):  MSM provides the skin with sulfur which is an essential element necessary for the production of sulfur based amino acids. These amino acids are essential to the structure of collagen. Since sulfur has been found to be present in the amino acids that comprise collagen, it is believed that incorporating sulfur into skincare products and into a healthy diet could have a huge impact on skin health. Perhaps this will prevent - even reverse - the signs of premature aging.

NIACiNAMIDE (Vitamin B-3):  Vitamin B-3 is essential for blood circulation and healthy skin.

OCTYL METHOXYCINNAMATE (Natural Sunscreen):  Octyl methoxycinnamate, or octinoxate, is an organic compound that is an ingredient in some sunscreens. It is an ester formed from methoxycinnamic acid and 2-ethylhexanol. It is a clear liquid that is insoluble in water. In studies, this ingredient was shown to have a low acute toxicity, is non irritating and non-sensitizing.  Its primary use is in sunscreens and other cosmetics to absorb UV-B rays from the sun, protecting the skin from damage.  Octinoxate is listed in Annex VII of the EU Cosmetics Directive for use as an agent in sunscreens up to a level of 10%. In the US, it is listed by the FDA as a Category I sunscreen for use at levels up to 7.5%.

OLEA EUROPAEA (Organic Olive Oil):  Organic Olive Oil is a rich emollient high in oleic acid, very beneficial to the skin. Used in skin care preparations for thousands of years for its softening and smoothing properties.

PALMITIC ACID (plant source):  Palmitic acid is one of the most common saturated fatty acids found in animals and plants. As its name indicates, it is a major component of the oil from palm trees (palm oil and palm kernel oil). The word palmitic is from the French "palmitique", the pith of the palm tree. Butter, cheese, milk and meat also contain this fatty acid.  Palmitate is a term for the salts or esters of palmitic acid. The palmitate anion is the observed form of palmitic acid at physiological pH.  Palmitate is an antioxidant and a vitamin A compound added to low fat milk to replace the vitamin content lost through the removal of milk fat. Palmitate is attached to the alcohol form of vitamin A, retinol, in order to make vitamin A stable in milk.

PANTHENOL (Vitamin B5):  In the skin it aids moisture retention (ability to both hold and attract water) and increases elasticity. It helps heal skin problems such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and diaper rash and soothes burns.  In hair care it increases the water content of the hair shaft, which leads to increased elasticity. It is an excellent scalp nutrient and hydrator, which creates more manageability, better shine, less static electricity, and improved softness.

PHENOXYETHANOL (plant source):  Phenoxyethanol is an organic chemical compound often used in dermatological products such as skin creams. It is a bactericide and an aromatic and is used as a fragrance ingredient as well as a preservative.

PIMPINELLA ANISUM (Anise) FRUIT EXTRACT:  Also known as aniseed, it is obtained by steam distillation of the anise seed. It can have potent antioxidant and antibacterial properties.

POLYSORBATE 20 (plant source):  This Widely used emulsifier is a vicious oily liquid derived from lauric acid, which is a common constituent of coconut oil. Polysorbate 20 is a nonionic surfactant, meaning it has no electrical charge. A surfactant is a surface active wetting agent that lowers the water surface tension permitting the oil to penetrate more easily. It has a soothing effect on the skin.

POTASSIUM SORBATE (plant source):  A preservative used in conjunction with phenoxyethanol, this protects against gram negative and gram positive bacteria. It is a food grade preservative.

PRUNUS AMYGDALUS DULCIS (Sweet Almond) EXTRACT:  Pressed from the almond nut, sweet almond oil is an excellent skin-softening oil used as a emollient for centuries. This excellent emollient is high in oleic, linoleic and other fatty acids, and is ideal in the treatment of very dry skin. It soothes and moisturizes and is a very good absorption base.

PULLULAN:  Pullulan, a natural vegetable starch derived polysaccharide, is used in conjunction with Algae Extract to naturally affect the skin on a microscopic level and temporarily change its look and feel. This change in the skin’s internal workings causes a slight expansion; this in turn makes skin appear more youthful with a smoother texture and fine lines and wrinkles to fade within minutes.

PURIFIED WATER:  All water used in cosmetic formulations goes through a process where it is deionized, demineralized and filtered to remove micro-organisms and other components that could interfere with a product's stability and performance.

RETINOL (Vitamin A):  Retinols are Vitamin A based creams that are helpful in the repair of photo aged skin. These are commonly found in many skin care products, and are used to help reduce photo aging. They are often used as an adjunct to other skin care products.  Vitamin A is a powerful free-radical scavenger used as an anti-aging and healing ingredient. Topically applied vitamin A is one of only three vitamins able to be absorbed by the skin. The other two are vitamins D & E.

RETINOL PALMITATE (Vitamin A): 

RETINYL PALMITATE (Vitamin A):  These stable forms of Vitamin A act as skin normalizers. They help remind the cells of what they did when they were young, and they nourish the skin when applied topically. These forms of Vitamin A combine retinol (pure Vitamin A) and palmitic acid to make a primary anti-oxidant, free radical scavenger and cell renewal ingredient. This acts as a skin normalizer with the ability to either moisturize dry skin or reduce excess oil in oily skin.

SAMBUCUS NIGRA (Elder Flower) EXTRACT:  This ingredient is extracted from the honey-scented flowers of the elder tree. It is a healing and gentle astringent for all skins especially mature or sallow skins. The elderflower is reputed to soften skin and smooth wrinkles, fade freckles, lighten and firm the skin and soothe sunburn. An excellent ingredient for eye and facial lotions, it is particularly beneficial for dry skin. It is an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory herb with emollient properties.

SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS (Jojoba) SEED OIL:  Jojoba is a rapidly absorbing oil that leaves the skin feeling exceptionally soft. The great skin feel of jojoba oil can help with superficial facial lines as well as enhancing the flexibility and suppleness of the skin. It is one of the least sensitizing and comedogenic oils, and it has anti-inflammatory properties as well.
Technically, jojoba oil is not an "oil" but a liquid wax; it has a unique chemical composition. It seems to diffuse into the corneum layer and acts with intercellular lipids to further reduce water loss. Jojoba Oil is the purest oil known to mankind and is antimicrobial.  It is derived from the seeds of the jojoba plant, a perennial bush native to the desert regions of the Southwest and northern Mexico.

SODIUM BENZOATE:  Sodium benzoate, a natural preservative, is a salt of benzoic acid.

SODIUM BICARBONATE:  Known as baking soda, this ingredient is a natural mineral derived pH adjuster and viscosity stabilizer. It is a very effective cleansing agent for oily skin.

SODIUM CHLORIDE (Salt):  From sea salts or common table salt, Sodium Chloride is Used primarily as a binding agent in skin-care products and occasionally as an abrasive in scrub products. It is an astringent, antiseptic, cleanser and adjusts viscosity.

STEARIC ACID (plant source):  This white, waxy, natural fatty acid from palm oil is used as a stabilizer, emulsifier, and thickener.  When a vegetable oil molecule is split in half, glycerin and fatty acids are the result. These fatty acids are reacted with borax, a natural salt, and this produces a natural emulsifier. Emulsifiers enable oils to be dispersed throughout a water base to form a cream or lotion that does not separate.

SODIUM OLEFIN SULFONATE:  This surfactant from coconut oil is used as a cleansing agent and emulsifier.

SYMPHYTUM OFFICINALE (Comfrey) HERB:  Comfrey Extract is used in cell therapy treatments, face creams and sun care preparations as a healing agent and moisturizer. Comfrey is an anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant, and it is reported to promote skin cell regeneration with its healing and soothing properties. Also known as Allantoin (see above).

TERMINALIA BELERICA (Bibitake):  Known to the scientific world as Terminalia belerica is a large deciduous tree traditionally called as Baheda or Bibitaki. The extract is derived from the fruits which is well-known commercial myrobalan, called Belliric Myrobalan. It is unique in being both laxative and astringent, so it purges the bowels, while simultaneously toning the tissues of the digestive tract.

It is one of the constituents of the famous preparation Triphala which finds use in a wide array of areas ranging form rejuvenating, astringent, cardioprotective, antacid & antibacterial properties. The overall tonic effect of this fruit has been known for thousands of years in India and other Asian countries. The major phytoconstituent are saponins in nature. Scientific Evidence Preclinical studies have shown that Terminalia belerica reduced the levels of lipids in hypercholesterolemic animals. The experiments have shown a significant decrease in liver lipids and heart lipids in the drug-treated animals.

Recent research has proven this herb to be a potent adaptogenic agent. The whole aqueous standardized extracts of Terminalia belerica were administered orally to experimental animals, in a dose extrapolated from the human dose, following which they were exposed to a variety of biological, physical and chemical stressors. The observations greatly supported the fact that Terminalia belerica significantly offers protection against these stressors. Experimental studies have also proven this herb as Antidiabetic, Antioxidant, Antimicrobial.

Warnings: Do not take during pregnancy.

TERMINALIA CHEBULA (Haritaki) FRUIT EXTRACT:  Haritaki is said to have strong anti-bacterial properties. It is revitalizing, toning, nourishing and astringent when used in skin and hair care formulations.  It strengthens and nourishes the tissues. Haritaki is highly revered in India, as it is believed to increase energy, intelligence and awareness.

THEOBROMA CACAO (Organic Cocoa Butter):  Cocoa Butter is the solid fat extracted from the seeds of the cocoa plant. Incredible on the skin, it’s been called the ultimate moisturizer and has been used to keep skin soft for centuries. Cacao is easily absorbed into the skin, boosts serotonin levels in the brain and actually makes you feel better.  Raw Cacao Butter contains beneficial polyphenols and saturated fats. It is soothing and helpful for a variety of skin conditions. Cacao butter softens and melts at body temperature and is used in a wide variety of skin care products. Indigenous to Mexico and Central America, it takes nearly 3 lbs of Cacao seeds to make one pound of butter.

TOCOPHEROL (Vitamin E):  Found in many plant oils, especially wheat and soy, this natural anti-oxidant, guards against rancidity in the oil phase of cosmetic formulations. Especially effective is a combination of tocopherol and ascorbyl palmitate (Vitamin C) as this produces a synergistic effect and increases the efficacy of tocopherol in its support in the stability of other oil and fat ingredients in the products.  Vitamin E is an umbrella term for a group of compounds called tocopherols and tocotrienols. Vitamin E can be wonderfully therapeutic for a whole host of skin problems, including burns. When applied to the skin, vitamin E-containing creams or oils are believed to promote healing, protecting cells from free-radical damage and reducing itchiness. It is valued for its soothing, regenerating properties.

TRITICUM VULGARE (Wheat Germ) Oil:  Extracted from the embryo of the wheat kernel, this is an anti-inflammatory and skin nourisher that also acts as a natural preservative because of its high vitamin E content.

UBIQUINONE (CO-ENZYME Q10):  CoQ10 is a natural substance found in every cell of the human body. In our mid twenties its activity decreases. Naturally occurring in the tissue of plants, Co-Enzyme Q10 is a vitamin like anti-oxidant that helps to boost cellular activity. It helps to fortify the skin's defenses against UV damage, while reducing the appearance of wrinkles, strengthening cell membranes, and providing the skin with new energy.

An antioxidant with actions very similar to those of vitamin E, it has been found to be an excellent defender against free radicals and, when used regularly over time, may help ease lines and wrinkles by building collagen.

After reaching the age of thirty, levels of CoQ10 in the skin are below optimum, resulting in lesser ability to produce collagen, elastin and other important skin molecules. CoQ10-depleted skin may be more prone to the damage by free radicals, which are particularly abundant in the skin since it is exposed to the elements. So the CoQ10 in skin care products may boost skin repair and regeneration and reduce free radical damage. Since CoQ10 is a small molecule, it can easily penetrate into skin cells.

VITIS VINIFERA (Grape Seed) OIL:  Vitis Vinifera is the Latin name for the vines producing wine grapes.

Components of grapes and grape seed exhibit a strong effect on preventing lipid peroxidation (oxidation of fat cells by free radicals), which is precisely what a good antioxidant should do, and grapes are not alone in their ability to mitigate and prevent free-radical damage to cells.

Grape seeds contain the powerful anti-oxidant, proanthocyanidin, which supports the actions of vitamin E and beta-carotene, and increases the action of Vitamin C. This speeds wound healing, regenerates damaged blood vessels, and helps clear potentially pathogenic bacteria from wounds. Also, it enhances the formation of epidermal tissue, and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Expressed from grape seeds, This ultra fine rich, soothing, carrier oil imparts shine and is widely used in hypo-allergenic moisturizers because it does not cause allergic reactions. The oil is moisturizing and nourishing due to its high linoleic acid content and may promote cellular health rejuvenation.

WHEAT PROTEIN:  This water-soluble protein is naturally derived from wheat. Proteins can have varying benefits for skin, but overall they are used for their water-binding and emollient properties. Applied topically, wheat protein helps attract and retain moisture and is clinically proven to minimize fine lines and wrinkles.

XANTHAN GUM:  The United States Department of Agriculture ran a number of experiments involving bacteria and various sugars to develop a new thickening agent similar to corn starch or guar gum. When Xanthomonas campestris was combined with corn sugar, the result was a colorless slime called xanthan gum.

Xanthan gum is considered a polysaccharide in scientific circles. Xanthan gum is used in dairy products and salad dressings as a thickening agent and stabilizer. Xanthan gum prevents ice crystals from forming in ice creams, and also provides a 'fat feel' in low or no-fat dairy products.

Another use for xanthan gum is the stabilization and binding of cosmetic products. One advantage of xanthan gum is that a little goes an incredibly long way. Cosmetic manufacturers add a very small amount of xanthan gum to their cream-based products in order to keep the individual ingredients from separating. Despite the use of bacteria during processing, xanthan gum itself is not harmful to human skin or digestive systems. Xanthan gum is often used whenever a gel-like quality is sought.

END OF GLOSSARY